Soumii introduced herself to the obvious leader of the Ornalith, "Greetingss! I am Adminisstrator Ssoumii, Mayor of Freeport. Thiss iss my head of ssecurity, Mossira, and my advissor, Agatha."
The leader of the Ornalith procession spoke in a deep, powerful, resonant voice, "Hello Mayor Soumii, Star Child Agatha, and Warrior Mossira. I am Ambassador Bhegguc of the Ornalith Dictorum. We have received your initial plans and, still having the original blueprints of this station, we need only take a quick tour to see the current state of it and we can have three estimates for you to include an austere, mid-level, and luxurious level of refit within 4 days time."
The Ornalith was, like his species, a sleek, marble-skinned creature. Each Ornalith had unique green, blue, and gray patterned lines around a sturdy body that more resembled a large, polished river rock of Terra. Three short, stout legs were equally spaced around the bottom of this rotund body and they seemed to have a ball like joint half way down that could pivot and bend in any direction, giving the creatures surprising lateral mobility.
At one end of this pebble body and directly over the most developed of the three legs was an upturned extension of slightly lesser girth with substantial three jointed arms, two arms to each side and one arm located slightly lower and centered to the front of the being, below a thick neck and three eyed head which also seemed to have ball-like joints.
The creatures stood approximately 2 meters tall when fully erect or could flatten themselves out to just a third of that height should circumstances require. It seemed the Ornalith varied between 270 to 320 kilograms among the adults present.
Bhegguc further replied, I wish to convey the Dictorum's pleasure in doing business with you and," it paused for a moment before continuing, "I have been given a dictate from our Prime Dictatus, the Honorable Chigurg, to invite you to sit with him at the Dictorum's Ruling Table for dinner this evening for food and festivities."
Soumii and Mossira looked to Agatha who smiled and nodded. Soumii then accepted, "Thank you Ambassador Bhegguc for conveying the dictate. Please inform Prime Dictatus Chigurg we will be most pleased to attend."
Agatha then asked Bhegguc to accompany her to her office and, upon acceptance of her offer, Agatha then pulled Bhegguc to the side as each of the Ornalith with him were assigned a guard/guide and shown around the facility...which ended up being about a 3 hour trek.
"Would you like some tea, Ambassador? Or perhaps some wine?"
"Wine would be wonderful!" Bhegguc looked around at the somewhat spartan meeting room and nodded appreciatively, politely keeping his thoughts about the austere quarters to himself. "Thank you."
Agatha went to pour some of the better wine available in Freeport, which was surprisingly good.
Agatha was a Star Child and her actions were beyond his understanding. If just a small portion of the old tales were true, she was one of the most potent and possibly most dangerous entities in the known universeperhaps even rivaling John Blake himself. As such, she was beyond him. Though, her guise as an advisor on a mining station soon to be trade station and diplomatic way station truly confused him.
Agatha sensed his emotions and after pouring the wine and bringing it to the table, sat across from him and smiled, "You are confused." She said as she placed the bottle between them on the table.
Bhegguc spoke carefully, "I admit, I am, Star Child. You are a member of the preeminent star faring species of the Universe and yet, you serve others. Please forgive, but my feeble mind has difficulty understanding."
Agatha nodded, "I am as you say. But I am still a baby by Onieran standards. I was found by and accepted into the family of my wife, Captain Dame Max Anders. Through her I have learned of unconditional love and acceptance."
Agatha took a wistful pause before continuing in a soft voice, "The only appropriate response is to return that love and acceptance: which I do. I should also mention I am First Secretary to the Exquisite Lady Jooniper, Terran Ambassador to the Minor Empires."
Bhegguc did a formal bow to the First Secretary, "And that family now owns this station."
"Yes. And that brings me to an issue that has come to my attention."
Bhegguc's three ears and eyes were instantly riveted to every nuance of speech and body language this ultimate life form expressed, "Yes? An issue?"
"Freeport is not only a trading station and smelting plant, but is also now a diplomatic vessel operating under the M.E Concordat. I say that to express our understanding that anything that occurs on this diplomatic vessel falls under the auspices of Ambassador Jooniper Smith and this station is now Terran Federation soil."
"We have learned, through back channels, that at least one of the Ornalith who will be working on the refit is an agent for an interstellar crime syndicate called 24k. Their mission is to place tracking and surveillance devices around the station as well as strategically place explosive devices which they would be able to control. The reason for this seems obvious and I believe you understand it is also obvious why we cannot allow this to happen."
Bhegguc was aghast, and deeply afraid. "I assure you Star Child, the Dictorum has no hand in this what-so-ever!"
Agatha held up her hand, "Relax, Ambassador. I am convinced that is truly the case. And please, just Agatha by you and everyone else is what I would prefer. I just wanted you to know that I will be looking into the minds of everyone who works on this station to root out any and all agents of this criminal organization and I will be taking steps to deal with them. I consider this a personal matter as it will threaten my family. I am letting you know as a matter of professional courtesy."
Bhegguc shuddered at the thought of what a Star Child, even a young one, could do to someone who threatened something they held dear. After a moment he replied, "No one of our species would ever question anything an Onieran did, Agatha. Having said that, I deeply appreciate your candor and willingness to share your understanding of the situation. I will certainly pass on this information to the Prime Dictatus as a matter of courtesy."
Towards the end of resupply from Oxbow Agatha asked,
*Would it be possible for the next Ambassadorial visit be to the Ornalith Dictorum? And if so, in what time frame?*
Joon asked Astrid,
*How long will we be visiting your Auntie*
*Anything over 3 days would be too much, though she would never complain.*
*Agatha, we can be there in 11 days time.*
"Ambassador Bhegguc. I have just been in contact with the family who are currently vacationing in Terran space and Ambassador Jooniper Smith has informed me she will be dropping by on an official visit in 11 days time. If the Ornalith Dictorum would be interested, she would love to do one of her music videos showcasing your culture and helping to open up new markets for interstellar trade and tourism."
--She can speak to family members from across the Galaxy in real time. Powerful indeed!--
"I also wanted you to know we have some unfinished business with the Terran Federation and one of their military vessels will be docking with us soon. It is my hope the Dictorum will not feel it is anything but a commercial exchange. We have secured one of their ships and need to return it. Will that be a problem?"
"I will let the affected agencies know as soon as we are finished, Star....Agatha."
"One last thing, the Ashanath will be delivering 10 of their best and largest military grade power cores for installation into Freeport." Agatha handed a computer chip with the specifications of the drive units to Bhegguc, "These are self-contained power cores and need only proper installation with circuitry capable of handling their power output."
"Thank you, Agatha. I will review these specifications with the power team and we will incorporate this information into our quotes."
"About that, Ambassador, we will just be going with the luxurious bid so don't waste your time on the others. Also, as you know I can read minds, we will accept a 25% profit margin for your people after all real costs are accounted for. We will make 7 payments of equal measure."
"One at the beginning, and five others, one at each 20 percent completion mark, and one when the contract is finished and a final inspection has passed...including a short ftl hop. This way your people have little to no capitol outlay and we hold most of their profit margin in hand to ensure our satisfaction."
Additionally, I would like Mayor Soumii to be involved in the coding of and layout of all electronic interfaces. She will work closely with your overseers as she will be the ultimate authority on the refit. I would also like no stratification of opulence between the social or political classes or species in the M.E. or T-Fed. Everyone from Ambassadors to family members of the merchants to guests at the station are to have the best possible furnishings, work spaces, and personal spaces."
Bhegguc raised an eyebrow, "These requirements could easily raise the cost to near a trillion credits, will that be a problem?"
"25% profit, after actual costs, and no it won't be a problem. If your agencies would prefer to be paid in rare metals just let me know and I will see what can be accommodated."
"How opulent?"
"Top of the line."
Bhegguc nodded, "I will inform all the vendors so they can plan accordingly."
"Mayor Soumii, there is a priority call for you from an Admiral Harris."
Soumii immediately walked to her holo-vid and accepted the call. "Admiral Harriss! To what do I owe thiss unexsspected pleassure?"
"Mayor Soumii, I wanted to let you know the Terran Federation has come into a bit of a financial windfall just recently and we will be purchasing the entire amount of Tyrenium we discussed earlier. I was also authorized to purchase any Titanium you might have on hand if we can agree to a price?"
"Let me check our inventory, Admiral." Soumii quickly looked at another hologram and noted the latest inventory showed 1,000,000,000 tons of pure Titanium already smelted into blocks. "Admiral, I sshow we have one billion tonss of smelted Titanium at 99.9999% purity. As a special, one time deal, I can sell it to you as a favored customer for 5 trillion. That comes to only 5,000 credits a ton which is a laughable price for smelted Titanium, but you caught us at a time we are cash poor and need the money for our refit."
Charles' jaw dropped. "We will take the whole lot! That will fulfill all of our ship building and station upgrade requirements in one stroke at a landslide of savings! Are you sure you want to sell us the lot at only 5,000 credits a ton? That is only one twentieth the going price!"
Soumii smiled, "We wissh to enssure no regretss concerning our preferred trading sstatuss. Sso we have a deal, 500 tonss of Tyrenium and 1,000,000,000 tonss of Titanium for a total of 5,015,000,000,000 creditss due upon resceipt. We will load your docked ship'ss hold with as mucsh ass can fit, leaving the resst to be transsferred to your incoming vesssel. May I inquire ass to when I may expect them?"
"Commodore Phillips should be arriving in system within the day. I will inform him of the new payment and ore shipment and there should be no problems. Call me if you have any concerns. And, Mayor Soumii, thank you. The Terran Federation will not forget your kindness in our time of need."
"Conssider uss a part of the team, Admiral Harriss."
Finally! Some good news!
Admiral Harris was as happy as he could possibly be, given the current crisis with the attack from a vastly superior force out on the outer rim. He had just made a deal that saved T-Fed twenty trillion credits in capital outlay.
With the watershed income of 36 trillion credits from the crime families, T-Fed's balance sheets were going to be cash flush and be able to fund not only the projects for the outer rim colonies, but the Trankaran acquisition, Olympus expansion, and the ship building program without putting the Federation deep into debt. Lynette was going to fuck him senseless when she got back home.
Charles quickly called Commodore Phillips.
"Commodore, sorry to interrupt you, Sir. But Admiral Charles Harris is on coms wishing to speak with you."
Jim Phillips rubbed his eyes as he awoke, "Yes, pipe it through to my quarters, thank you."
The T-Fed sigil disappeared in an instant and Admiral Harris smiled, "Commodore, I apologize for waking you, but I know you would want to be informed. The deal with Freeport has changed somewhat. You will be picking up the ship which will be filled with 500 tons of Tyrenium but you will also be packing in one billion tons of Titanium. Upon receipt you are now authorized to transfer a total of 5,015,000,000,000 credits from the account you have been given into the Freeport account discussed previously. Do you have any questions?"
Jim's eyes focused, "How am I going to get a billion tons of ore on one Battleship?"
"Use every nook and cranny. Use hallways you can detour around. I don't care how you do it, but we need all of it, so make it happen."
"T-Fed must have gotten a steal of a price, pun intended."
Charles leaned back in his padded chair, his eyes sparkling as his mustache twitched, "Indeed we did, Commodore. Indeed we did. Let your crew know they will be granted extended leave when they get back in compensation for their troubles."
Jim smiled, "That will go a long way, Admiral. Thanks for the olive branch."
"One more thing, Jim. There is an unknown entity onboard Freeport that has very strong, magical like powers. Goes by the name of Agatha and is First Secretary to the Ambassador of the Minor Empires. Treat her carefully and with respect. We suspect, with a wave of her hand, she can disable your entire crew at a distance. We cannot afford to antagonize her in the midst of this deal and it remains to be seen if she is an ally or not."
Jim raised an eyebrow, "Are we looking at another Lion?"
"I wish I knew. We have intel on the ground, but keep out a sharp eye."
"Aye, Admiral. Sharp eye and courtesy it is."
Back on the Dierdra, Agatha was informing the family about the developments on Freeport.
Howard blinked. "You mean the family owns the largest ore processing plant in the entirety of known space and is refitting it to the tune of over a trillion dollars...and you just got the Terran Federation to pay for it including a 4 trillion dollar profit? On top of the 4 trillion from the crime families?"
Astrid smiled, "Yes, dad. And that doesn't include my family assets we have access to, which, at the last audit, amounted to about 2 trillion."
Mercedes sat down for a moment. "You mean, the family has assets now totaling over 10 trillion credits with multiple money making assets that likely means those credits will probably never be touched?"
Astrid smiled and nodded, looking lovingly at Nikke "And that's not all."
Mercedes looked at Astrid and asked, "What do you mean?"
Astrid smiled and looked at Nikke, playfully scrunching her nose at her sister, "Our resident Djin here can scope out uninhabited planetary bodies and basically mine gold, silver, copper, diamonds, rubies, or any other elements she wishes at near instantaneous speed. Did you happen to notice the barrels of copper, gold, and silver in the cargo hold while you were there?"
Howard nodded, "It looked like those metals but I was not sure. Must be a couple tons of each."
"Took me an interminable amount of time to get them. The asteroid belt we were in at the time had already been mined. What was it, Emma, two minutes?"
Howard chuckled and just shook his head.
"Freeport needs a Xenobiologist and doctor as well as a security martial arts instructor. Freeport will be the new center for trade and diplomacy in the Minor Empires as well as eventually being our home base of operations." Astrid continued, "I am looking for very prominent people in those fields, mom and dad. Are you interested?"
Mercedes almost wept with joy but she visibly constrained herself, looking to her husband for his reaction. Howard asked, "Who will be my students?"
Joon spoke up, "Everyone from Largath to Slarmians, Bracht to Nethrilla, Skerawk to Trankarans daddy. Basically all the members of the Minor Empires as well as a Marine contingent. Each species to be responsible for keeping the peace and enforcing the laws of Freeport with their own citizens with cross species support."
"My fighting style does not fit all known species."
"Which means you will have to study, and develop adapted fighting styles. You would become the father of integrated martial arts among the species."
"You are talking about a hell of a lot of work, baby. I am getting a bit long in the tooth for all that."
"Yes, but you would only need to teach two or three from each species. They can then become the teachers and you can just oversee them."
Agatha added, "And I am working on your bodies to restore your youth. If you think on it, I am sure you have begun to notice some changes already."
Samira then joined in, "And mom, you would become the foremost authority of xeno medical biology and treatments for the entirety of known space."
Mercedes then asked, "What about med stations, supplies, skilled assistants, beds, quarantine facilities?"
Max then smiled, "Pretty sure we can scrounge up everything you could possibly need. Might need to visit some bargain shops though to keep costs down."
With that the whole family rolled.
Paula pinged everyone,
*Dinner is served!*
German Bread Dumplings were served with a Bourbon mushroom and onion gravy. The base was made of hardened bread, cut up into small chunks and soaked in hot whole milk (from Agatha who gave it some of her essence). To that combination crumbled bacon, fresh parsley, and fresh ground nutmeg were added, mixed, and rolled into a ball. The balls were then lathered with a thick gravy made of chopped and sauteed mushrooms, caramelized onion, and a hearty Bourbon mixed with equal parts beef broth which was thickened with flour upon heating.
These dumplings were served to the side with Rinderrouladen, or German beef rouladen. A Grainy mustard was slathered onto thinly sliced beef, followed by lightly cooked, thick cut, bacon, onion slivers, and a sandwich sliced dill pickle sleeve. They were rolled up, set with a toothpick, and deep fried before being put into the oven to braise until all the flavors melded together.
These rounds were served on a bed of red cabbage which had been quick sweated with red wine, caramelized sugar, and sour vinegar before the addition of tangy apple bits.
To the side in a glass cup was some warm, thick, and creamy Griessbrei. Made with (Agatha's) milk, vanilla, and sugar, which was brought to a boil before the semolina was added and the mixture set to simmer, letting it thicken. Paula had topped it with cinnamon and brown sugar.
To drink, Paula had created a mulled wine with a good German fruity red wine to which she added orange and lemon juice, cinnamon sticks, and cloves. She let it simmer first and then left it to steep, resulting in a deep, flavorful mulled wine. It was served warm with orange slice garnishes.
For desert, Paula had made a very rich and decadent German chocolate pie with just the right amount of sweetness from the white and brown sugar which balanced out the slightly bitter semi-sweet chocolate chips. Honey roasted and lightly salted pecans added a satisfying crunch while coconut flakes provided the perfect amount of texture.
To Paula's delight, there was no conversation during dinner as everyone was too busy eating and moaning.
Mercedes sat back and cried.
"Mom, is something wrong?" Joon asked, a look of genuine concern on her face as she reached for her mother's hand.
"Yes." sniffle. "Something is terribly wrong!" Mercedes cried as her lower lip began to tremble as she looked at Paula.
Everyone was quiet, waiting to hear what had caused mom to be so emotional. Paula was getting concerned, wondering if she had done something wrong to offend mom.
"There is no way in hell I am going to keep my weight down with all this fantastic food!"
Everyone laughed, not giving Mercedes any pity. After a bit, Agatha explained, "Mom, don't worry about it. I adjust everyone's metabolism as is necessary to deal with that situation."
Mercedes gave a deep blow and smiled. She stood and walked over to where Agatha was seated and hugged her, "Best Agatha."
Everyone looked at Joon, who had started that whole 'best Agatha' game and laughed, realizing the nut had not fallen far from the tree.
Commodore Jim Phillips walked onto the Bridge just as his XO was about to report they were entering the Xi Piscium system. "How about it XO?"
"Captain has the Bridge!" The XO announced.
"As you deduced, Sir, we are just now entering the Xi Piscium system. We have 6 hours travel time in sublight before we reach Freeport. With your permission I will contact the Ornalith traffic control as well as Freeport to advise them of our arrival."
"Very good XO."
"Coms, contact Freeport and advise them of our imminent arrival. Then contact Ornalith traffic control and ask them for clearance to dock with Freeport for the purpose of conducting a business transaction."
"Aye, Sir."
"XO, how goes the shuffling of internals so we can accommodate that much cargo?"
"All set, Sir. And I have a shift of personnel who are on standby to assist with the loading and locations."
"As is your customary standard, Well done, XO. By the way, have someone call the mess hall and have them bring me up something to eat."
"The XO smiled, ETA on food is five minutes, Sir."
Jim smiled, he was not a strict authoritarian, but he did run a tight ship. And, his XO was top notch. He was due a promotion soon: Jim was not looking forward to losing him to his own ship. "Sound General Quarters XO, man all battle stations and let me know when we are ready."
The XO jumped on the horn, sounding the alarm, "BATTLE STATIONS! PREPARE TO REPEL BORDERS! SHIELDS AT MAXIMUM! LIGHT UP THE GUNS! BATTLE STATIONS! BATTLE STATIONS! PREPARE TO REPEL BORDERS! SHIELDS UP! GUNS PREPARE TO FIRE! BATTLE STATIONS!"
To a person the ship jumped and an organized chaos ensued. In five minutes there were Marines suited in full battle gear at their assigned stations throughout the ship and the Battleship was ready for war. "Five minutes to full readiness on repelling boarders, Commodore, five seconds on the guns and shields."
"Exceptional XO. Release from battle stations and let the crew know I was very pleased. Hollywood showers tonight for the Marines and the first round in the bar is on me as they rotate off duty."
While awaiting a courier ship to take them down to the planet Orithion, as it was locally named, Soumii held the hand of Mossira. It was obvious the two were feeling a bit out of their league and Agatha could 'taste' their anxiety so she pushed calm into both.
Mossira responded, "Agata, the Ambassodorr was verry differrential to you, referring to you ass a Sstarr Child?"
Agatha continued to push calm into the two of them and answered truthfully, "Yes, Mossira. I am an Onieran, what the members of the Minor Empires call a Star Child. The last one here created the planet Dau and its inhabitants. She was considered a Deity among the Bolon whom she helped develop as well."
Soumii then responded to Mossira, "My love, Agatha can also walk your dreamss. Sshe gleaned from that you were an honorable one who could be trussted when the fight for Golomar began. I wass in on ssome of the planning and can tell you firsst hand, sshe orchesstrated the whole thing."
Mossira nodded to Agatha and turned to give Soumii a light and tender kiss on her cheek, "And I am sso happy sshe did, my beloved. Sshould thingss go ssouth this evening, I will prresserrve and prrotect you both to my lasst brreath."
Agatha looked aghast, "You will do no such thing, Mossira! You will get Soumii clear of the danger and allow me to do my thing. I am an accomplished martial artist, student of the most feared fighter in all of the Terran Federation, and a practitioner of powerful magic. Besides, if I am killed, I will not die. If either of you are killed I cannot easily bring you back the same as you are now."
Soumii and Mossira looked at one another, both realizing the unsaid. Agatha was immortal and could bring back the dead...at least to some degree. Both sat back and digested those bits of knowledge, having a newfound respect for their friend.
Soumii had a casual smile, "It iss good to have friendss in high placess."
Mossira nodded her agreement.
Agatha looked to both and quietly said, "You are both equals with the Honorable Chigurg this evening. Among my many duties, I am the First Secretary to Ambassador Jooniper Smith who is the Terran Federation representative to the Minor Empires. We represent her as a diplomatic corp this evening. So do not allow yourselves to be spoken down to. You represent the second strongest species in the quadrant."
Mossira asked, "Behind the Maliri?"
"Behind the Lion of the Federation, Admiral John Blake, who is King of the Maliri."
Both Soumii's and Mossira's jaws dropped. Agatha put a finger to her lips to indicate that was need to know and they both nodded after they got over their shock.
A moment later Soumii asked, "You know thiss h-how?"
Agatha giggled, "From what I have read. The Maliri do his bidding...even to the point of going to war when he asks both at Terra during the attack by the Kintark as well as in support of the Kintark against the Brimorians and in support of the Trankarans against the Kirrix. His ship, the Invictus, is the only non Maliri ship to have Maliri weaponry installed on it. And, with these wildly changing Maliri initiatives, they changed their name from the Maliri Regency to the Maliri Protectorate. The only entity capable of 'protecting' the preeminent species of this part of the galaxy is the Lion of the Federation and his Lionesses. Therefore, the only logical conclusion is John Blake is now the King of the Maliri."
Mossira's eyes grew large: "The Maliri werre the rreasson the Terran Federration wass able to defeat the Emperrorr's Arrmada!"
Agatha nodded, "And the Lion and his Lionesses are the only reason Kinta still exists along with the Kintark people."
Just then, the shuttle arrived to pick up the three guests and, thoughtfully, it was large enough to comfortably seat Mossira. The three rode in silence, knowing the shuttle was likely bugged. Agatha wore a very professional suit in charcoal gray with silver piping along the seams, a plain silver silk blouse with mother of pearl buttons, and low healed sandals made of leather strapping dyed a shiny black. She also carried her special purse.
Mossira went with a pearlescent green outfit made of ballistic material with detachable large buttons that could double as throwing disks. Her clothing also mitigated laser fire. Soumii wore her finest dark green outfit with orange highlights.
As they approached what could only be called a great castle, the transport rested lightly at the end of a carpeted walk lined with an honor guard of Ornalith security personnel in burgundy and black armor who saluted the trio with their front hands as they exited the transport and walked to the massive stone doors of the front gate.
The trio walked tall and with purpose through the honor guard, nodding politely to them as they passed.
The 5 story tall walls of the castle were a pristine white background and displayed bah relief scenes of forests, caves, and indigenous animals all colored with embedded gems. The double doors were a matched pair of enormous light blue Agate stones with cloud like white wisps moving through their mirror smooth, translucent surfaces, giving the appearance of a deep, light blue sky.
The doors were massive, being 4 meters tall where they met at the center line arch and 2 meters wide each. Each stone was 500 centimeters thick and they hung on long, massive, tungsten steel, floral designed hinges; eight to a side. The doors were actually inset into the wall and opened outward to reveal a two meter wide, 50 meter long hallway lined with enormous 2 meter by 3 meter high book matched sheets of mother of pearl stones. The ceiling was a solid curtain of bio luminescent algae which emanated a soft, pastel green glow.
The effect was the feeling you were walking through the an ocean.
While Soumii and Mossira were awed by the grandeur and pure, unadulterated, garish opulence of the entrance to the castle, Agatha was acutely aware of the deeper significance and wondered why such a wonderful species would feel so insecure that it needed such garish displays to 'prove' their self worth.
Back at the Deirdra, Vika looked at Agatha, "Do not touch the eating utensils. Kill the advisor after the insult."
Joon and Max overheard Vika's warning and Joon immediately sat her down on her lap and asked "Is there anything the family needs to do?"
"Actually, Agatha is much more capable than we have given her credit for. Mossira is there and between them this will work out just fine."
"What is the probability?" Max asked as she pulled a worried Joon onto her lap where she was now supporting both.
"With my warning, near 100%."
Joon squinted at Vika, "And without your warning?"
"Everyone would eventually be okay but the refit would have to have been rescheduled with another race."
Agatha gave hand signals to Mossira and Soumii, "Touch nothing, eat nothing, stay close, follow my lead, high alert. Possible poisoning attempt."
The sight seeing was over in an instant as Mossira and Soumii became hyper vigilant.
Upon entering the huge dining area, there were many slate tables with oddly shaped posts where Ornalith were seated as they squatted down upon them. The Ornalith at the door announced their arrival with a deep, booming voice. "Dignitaries and guests! I present unto you the Oneiran Agatha. Star Child and First Secretary to Ambassador Jooniper Smith of the Terran Federation and her companions, Mayor Soumii of Freeport and her head of Security, the Warrior Mossira!"
All heads rotated on their ball joints and respectfully nodded to the trio who were then led to the head table and seated with their backs to the rest of the room. The posts for them were modified to accommodate their anatomy. Agatha reached out and felt everyone's emotions and noted curiosity, ambivalence, and muted interest but no open hostility.
That was about to change, though.
Mossira was to Agatha's left and Soumii was to her right. Immediately upon them being seated, the doorman spoke again, " Prime Dictatus, the Honorable Chigurg, and his advisor Dictatumus, the honorable Decrang."
No one stood but everyone turned their head and bowed, Agatha, Soumii, and Mossira followed their protocol. Agatha was slammed with hatred from Decrang. A consuming fire of hatred and...fear.
Chigurg's coloring was an off white with burgundy and sliver veins while Decrang was a pure white with bright red veins, giving him an almost sinister look.
Both Chigurg, and Decrang sat across from and centered on Agatha. Upon their seating, the food was brought out. It consisted mostly of lichens, mushrooms, and prepared whole grains. Agatha again signing, "Touch nothing."
As Decrang and Chigurg began eating the others in the hall began as well. Decrang was very forward and a bit condescending, "Agatha, what cause did your incoming Terran Battleship have to raise shields and show their weapons upon entering our system? That was very inappropriate and insulting!"
"I apologize for the unintended affront, honorable Dictatumus Decrang. Terran Captains, when exiting hyperwarp, tend to have drills to keep their crew trained. I am sure no untoward intentions were meant."
"And now you insult us by not eating?"
"I apologize, Dictatumus Decrang, but we are not aware of these items and do not know if they may be detrimental to our various anatomies. Besides, the utensils are poisoned."
"HOW DARE YOU INSULT THE PRIME DICTATUS AT HIS OWN TABLE!"
With that the whole dining room turned to look their way. Agatha held up a hand to silence him and loudly pronounced, "Perhaps you would handle our utensils yourself to prove me wrong about them being poisoned?"
You could have heard a pin drop.
Decrang's voice got even lower and menacing, "I would not bend so low as to appear to be so subservient to those who are not of high born Ornalith blood! Unlike you, who seems to delight in debasing herself as a slave to lesser beings."
Agatha smiled softly and slowly raised a finger, pointing at Decrang. I do believe I have had quite enough of your insults. You may be of high born Ornalith blood, but I am a Star Child and NO species may disrespect me, my family, or put my family at risk under penalty of death." She cast a 25th level 'Ray of Frost' spell and motes of frost developed around her finger before a blast of absolute cold lanced out, freezing Decrang almost instantly, "Mossira! Flying disk! Cut off his head!"
Mossira didn't hesitate and with a great draconian roar and a quick flick of her wrist, she detached one of the steel buttons of her outfit and flung the disk at the frozen neck of Decrang, decapitating him. As his head hit the table and shattered Agatha cast a 25th level 'Wall of Stone' spell around the head table that went from floor to ceiling.
As Agatha turned her gaze towards Chigurg he began to bellow his laughter. This effectively broke the tense atmosphere within the stone walls as his humor was genuine and deep, "Thank you Star Child for eliminating that fool! I have been chained by him and his followers for far too long in these halls. His public demise was so embarrassing for him and his movement it will totally crush his organization."
Agatha could taste his authenticity, "I regret having to take his life, Prime Dictatus, but he attempted to kill us. I assume he felt we were a threat and, sadly, his actions created the very threat he feared."
"Indeed Star Child. Indeed. And, that self fulfilling prophesy will completely demoralize his followers." Chigurg smirked with a wave of his frontal arm and hand. "By the way, I wish to thank you for the return of the 454 Ornalith captives from the slavers of Freeport."
Agatha nodded and replied, "I wish to apologize for the necessary deaths of 4 Ornalith pirates and 8 Ornalith smugglers."
"Oh, you saved me the trouble, Agatha."
Soon banging could be heard on the stone walls Agatha had erected and she raised an eyebrow towards Chigurg who gently responded in his deep, bass voice, "I will stand them down if you would spare their lives. They are only doing their duty."
Agatha nodded and spoke, "Gone in 3, 2, 1."
As soon as the stone walls disappeared, the Prime Dictatus shouted, "HOLD! ALL IS WELL!"
Several guards fell over as they were in the process of battering the wall as it just disappeared. Neatly sprawling over the floor as they caught their balance. One of the guards who was leading the attempted rescue carried a short plasma rifle and asked, "Prime, are you in danger?"
"Only if you continue your needless attempts to rescue me. Stand down, Captain. All is well."
The Captain bowed low while continuously watching the guests as he read their body language, "By your dictum, Prime."
Chigurg then apologized, "I am so very sorry, but this fool's public demise requires me to do a bit of political maneuvering that just cannot wait. Could we have dinner at your place sometime soon? I would love to get to know you better."
"I will have the refit teams work on the Ambassadorial level first and when it is complete, we must certainly get back together, Prime. However, in 11 days time, my Ambassador will be arriving and would ask for an audience."
"Let my people know and we will bring her straight to the palace. Oh, and I dictate your refit shall be paid in full by the Crown in appreciation for your unintended service to me. I will have you safely returned to your station immediately with my deepest apologies for the insults you have had to endure."
"By your leave, Prime, that will not be necessary."
Agatha put a hand on both Mossira and Soumii and cast a transportation spell, placing them back in her small office on board Freeport.
The Prime whispered, "So the fables are true and she is an authentic Star Child. We truly live in interesting times."
Soumii, who had been silent during this entire ordeal, quickly sat down and took a deep breath as she looked to Agatha, "H-how did you know?"
"Vika's portent. She told me what to expect."
"Friends in high places indeed!" Mossira laughed as she grated and chomped her teeth in a Kintark style show of approval.
Soumii took Mossira's hand and whispered, "I need you, my love."
Mossira's face quickly shifted from amused appreciation to endearing care as she swept up her lover and walked out of Agatha's office without preamble and headed for their quarters for some very sensual lovemaking.
Joon stopped Agatha's report, "Wait. How did it feel letting go of your Ruthless Goddess of Chaos persona?"
"It was appropriate as an attempt was made against the family. And my attack was specific and controlled. I was enraged: not by the flimsy insults, but by the family being targeted and in danger."
Joon nodded, "So, you are telling us there was an assassination attempt on you three by the head advisor whom you killed after he insulted you and the Prime Dictatus then, out of appreciation, said the upgrade to Freeport was free?!"
Agatha nodded, "Yes. Freeport will now be upgraded to full luxurious levels for all inhabitants for free."
Samira smiled, "I am more interested in the 25th level spell casting! Agatha! That is beyond the 20th level limit! How?"
"Well, I added a wisdom component, a knowledge component, and a divine power component to the casting of the spell. Combined, it equates to a level 25th level spell cast."
Samira's jaw dropped. Astrid was gobsmacked, "I compute it is actually a 25.4 level equivalency. Really amazing!"
Paula interjected, "Hold on! You have access to divine power as well?"
Agatha looked just a bit sheepish, "Actually, Paula, I didn't discharge all that I absorbed from you. I only discharged that amount I had to in order not to get hurt over time. Which means you can recharge me whenever you wish."
Paula smirked, "Okay, THAT is cool! You need recharging now?"
"No, I only used a very small amount on those two spells."
Joon smiled, "With a free refit, we need to build a safe zone daycare that is both comprehensive and intellectually stimulating for the children along with primary, secondary, and University level schools on Freeport."
Agatha nodded, "I am glad you agree with my plans. I gave them to the Ornalith earlier today."
Joon narrowed her eyes, "Keep it up doll face and you are in for a family tickling!"
Mercedes squealed, "We are going to have babies! And young children? And students I can teach at University?"
Joon laughed, "No you cannot be in charge of the daycare or the schools! You will be busy enough as it is! BUT: I do want you to look into getting us a top notch administrator for those positions...and don't limit yourself to just Terrans!"
"Oh! Paula exclaimed, "Mom can run the Med school as part of her hospital and xenobiology studies, Trankarans for geology and metallurgy, Bract and Terrans for business education, Ornalith and others for construction technologies, Dauzakai for electronics, Chazi for farming, we could incorporate all of the Minor Empire species!"
Joon snapped her fingers, "Dream party orgy! Agatha, make sure to invite Mossira and Soumii. Mom and Dad, you are invited, too!"
Howard's mouth dropped and as he stood there, Mercedes walked past and lifted his chin, "Howie, you loved having a threesome with Agatha, what makes you think you will not enjoy this?"
Howard blushed, "Jooniper is flesh and blood, 'Des."
Mercedes smiled, and you already fucked her wife...and loved it, dear. So did I. Besides, it is a dream. Keep your manhood in your pants during waking hours if you like, but dreams are a part of a healthy fantasy life. Besides, I suspect with all the pussy around, Mixie is going to need the help."
Howard blushed a deeper red and Joon came over and wrapped him up. "Daddy, I understand. But no one is going to force you into something you don't want to do; least of all, me. You don't have to have sex with me unless you want to. And growing up, its not like I have not seen you nude before."
Howard looked around the room at all the expectant faces and sighed. "Am I the only one having second thoughts?"
To a woman they all nodded in the affirmative, supportive faces one and all.
Howard took a deep breath and looked deeply into his wife's eyes, "You sure you are okay with this?"
Mercedes smiled softly, pulled her husband in close, and whispered in his ear between soft kisses on his neck, "My loving husband, while I have had fantasies about other women and men over the years, I have never acted upon them out of respect for our marriage. I know you have done the same...it is only natural."
"We have the opportunity to throw off all of the baggage that comes with real life sexual constraints and live a fantasy dream together."
"But what if I like it and want to have real life sex with one of my daughters?"
'Des smiled, raised an eyebrow, and whispered, "The only time I would be angry is if you didn't tell me and give me the opportunity to watch or participate."
"Seriously?"
"Very. Seriously. Didn't you enjoy watching me eat out Agatha's pussy last time? It sure made you energetic when you took me as she came on my face." Mercedes whispered as she placed her hand on her husband's crotch. "And it seems you are still very interested, just hesitant."
Howard thought about what his wife was trying to tell him and he realized she wanted this as much as he did. Sex between them was wonderful, a deep, sensual sharing of love. But the lust and animalistic side of their sex lives died many years ago. This was a safe way to re ignite those flames from their youth in a consequence free environment. Thoughts of emotional entanglements, given the girls obviously have already worked through those successfully in real life being the proof, was manageable.
Mercedes saw when he reached his conclusion, "And?"
Howard looked at Nikke, "If I may, I would like to experience having sex with a fire demon in the dream first. Nikke, you up for that?"
"Oh shoot yeah! Let's get to bed and go to sleep and fire this orgy up, dad."
Mercedes grabbed Howard's arm and led him to their bedroom. Howard helped Mercedes undress, running his hands over her breasts and tummy before touching her labia...which were soaked in anticipation. For some reason, that reality allowed him to release his guilt and he relaxed.
Mercedes reached into the nightstand and pulled out a prophylactic, gently rolling it down the length of her loving husband's shaft. "Little doubt you are going to have a wet dream tonight Howie. This will help keep the sheets from sticking later tonight."
Howard and Mercedes snuggled in close in each other's arms as they fell asleep.
The two instantly found themselves in a glade in the middle of a Forrest with a deep carpet of soft grass beneath their feet. They were alone initially when a cat walked into the sunlight drenched glade and scuttled directly for them. As it neared, the cat took the shape of their Onieran daughter, Agatha, who deeply kissed them both.
Samira and Astrid then joined in the round robin of kissing, soon followed by Max and Joon, Paula and Vika, Mossira and Soumii, and finally, Emma and Nikke.
Nikke kissed Howard last and as she placed her hand behind his neck she burst into flame as she deep kissed him, their tongues battling for supremacy. Howard reached down with his large hands and cupped her butt cheeks which were writhed in fire and he gently separated them as he lifted up his little Djinn. She wrapped her legs around his waist and Howard slowly entered the fiery depths of her pussy...both of them groaning as he bottomed out inside her.
As everyone watched, Howard bent his knees and, while still balls deep inside Nikke, gently laid her down on the grass and began to long stroke her flaming hot pussy.
"Fuuuck yesss! Take me like you stole me, daddy!"
Being called daddy by his daughter in law while he was balls deep inside her caused something to click inside Howard's brain and his inner animal was unleashed. He didn't realize it due to the passion of the moment, but his body turned into one of his black panthers as he lay on top of his Djinn and he took her for all he was worth, screaming as a dominant panther in heat would while mating.
Reaching down with his long, rough tongue he lapped at the Djinn's nipples as he took her again and again and again until they both screamed their climaxes to the group assembled around them: who, to a person, were entranced by the hot sexual scene playing out before them.
After a moment, Emma approached Soumii and asked, "Are you up for experiencing something really radical?"
Soumii was incredulous, "More sso than what we jusst watched?"
Emma winked, smiled, and whispered, "Trust me," as she possessed Soumii. Emma/Soumii then approached Max and smiled as they climbed up on her and lowered themselves onto her raging hard cock.
Soumii was overcome with lust. Feeling her first cock inside her while being possessed and feeling the lusty emotions of Emma at the same time began a feral loop between the two that they rode to orgasm after orgasm in just a few minutes while they humped on Max's cock.
Howard, who had laid on his back with his cock standing straight in the air, motioned to Mossira who promptly straddled him and lowered her draconic sex, engulfing him in her sopping wet pussy.
The rest of the women created a daisy chain of mouth to wet sex, hands to breasts. As Howard and Max wore out a pair, another took their place until every woman had climaxed multiple times.
From there it got freaky. Nikke and Emma began possessing every woman who came back for seconds, swapping Max for Howard and Howard for Max. The feedback loops of sensuality provided by the twins blew everyone's minds.
The orgy ended with Howard taking Max from behind as Max took Mercedes while Emma and Nikke possessed Howard and Max. Howard learned a lot from the experience, being able to feel Nikke's pleasure and desires along with his own as he released the last load of his seed into his adopted daughter. Nikke and Emma also learned how it felt from both genders as they experienced male ejaculation.
Through it all, Agatha floated in Nirvana.
In the end, everyone cuddled and spooned, enjoying the bliss of the satiated sexual expressions of their love for each other and all fell asleep in the glade under the watchful eye of their loving Star Child.
Howard awoke the next morning, fully rested. Mercedes was still facing him: they had cuddled throughout the night. Mercedes looked deeply into her man's eyes, asking the unasked question. Howard kissed her nose and whispered, "Yeah, it was fun."
As they untangled Mercedes gasped, "Oh my goodness, Howie. Good thing you had one of those things on!"
Howard looked down and saw the prophylactic on his manhood was bloated with his seed, giving testament to the number of times he had climaxed in the shared dream.
Teffa needed to talk to her Ambassador. She had a request to make, but it was potentially fraught with both personal and professional risk. She hadn't asked during the dream as she felt it might ruin the experience.
Agatha had sensed her discomfort and walked into the staff dining room after getting a cup of tea and picking up a couple of fruit turnovers one of the staff had made. They smelled delicious. It was a fruit that slightly resembled a tart apple but had the look of a ripe plumb. Confectioner's sugar was sprinkled on the outside while the tart fruit was mixed with cinnamon. The flavor profile really woke up the taste buds and blended well with tea or coffee.
Agatha handed one to Teffa as she sat across from her. Agatha waited for Teffa as she enjoyed her breakfast.
Teffa cleared her throat and Agatha raised an eyebrow as they made eye contact, "Durx has been sentenced to death."
Agatha nodded, "That was expected. The lower level operatives always get the harshest punishment."
Teffa continued, "I have the distinct impression Durx had a change of perception while he was here. He seemed to realize his devotion was to the wrong people. Did you feel the same from him?"
Agatha nodded, "Yes, I did. What do you propose?"
Teffa took a deep breath and said, "I would like to propose a job of spying for the Consulate to him in exchange for his life. I think the idea has merit for both the Consulate's mission as well as for Durx and the Dynasty."
Agatha thought for a moment. "Let me ask the family."
"She wants to WHAT?" Joon half screeched.
Agatha repeated herself and added, "I believe, if he accepts, he will be a valuable asset for us. As long as we do not betray him as his former associates did, I believe he will be a loyal part of the Consulate staff."
Max asked, "You walked his dreams and know him well?"
Agatha nodded. "If he accepts, he will be loyal if treated with dignity and respect. He only turned on his associates because he was sure he was facing a death sentence and he realized he had been used. Otherwise, he would not have said a word."
Max looked to Joon who listened but was not quite convinced. Joon then asked, "His roll would be espionage? Getting ensconced back into the Hybinus Ruling class ranks and keeping an eye on them for us first and the Crown second?"
"If he agrees, yes."
Joon huffed, "This is a high risk high reward move for us. If we move on this, I want you to monitor him closely. Would you be willing to do that?"
Vika nodded her approval. "I have anticipated that request and already decided to agree."
Just at that time, Astrid walked in, saw the looks, and asked, "OhkaywhatsgoingonandwhadImiss?"
Agatha gave her a synopsis.
Max nodded, "Then let's make the proposal. Go through the diplomatic channels first. We want this to be accepted by the Potentate and have the legal side of things buttoned up before we approach Durx. Agatha agreed and immediately upon the grant of permission asked for a private meeting with the Potentate.
The move on 24k in the Bract depots was coordinated between all of them and the entire move lasted only 10 minutes. In that short period of time, all the known monetary, personnel, and intelligence assets of 24K were seized. The Bract, along with their Largath security forces, made every arrest they were attempting with no loss of life...at least for the moment.
Some of the intelligence seized concerning piracy, slavery, and sales of beings to the Kirrix, not to mention the coordination with the theft of their Galleon, left that option open for debate. In one fell stroke, the ability of 24k to rise from the ashes of their loss of leadership took a huge blow as the second of three avenues of income to the organization was summarily destroyed without warning. And there was a Witch in route to the minor empires.
The ruling Council was going to have to take up and debate the matter as the members of 24k were intimately tied to the corporate interests which had stifled Bract commerce in the Terran Federation. And Terran Federation High Command had to be brought into the loop. Mary decided it was time to have another tea party. She was sure Agatha, having just maneuvered her way around High Command would have some pointers.
Agatha was surprised the Majestic Potentate immediately sent an armored car to pick her up for a private meeting. She was brought into an underground parking lot, which she had never seen, through several checkpoints, and finally escorted under guard to an elevator. When the doors opened, she found herself in the private rooms of Zalix the Eighth, Majestic Potentate of the Slarmian Dynasty.
He was seated at a tea table, "Pleasse, dearesst Agatha, come ssit with me and let uss enjoy ssome tea together."
Agatha bowed deeply and sat cross legged directly opposite from Zalix. "I musst ssay, the Wunai Moon Tea you introduced uss to iss delightful. I owe you a big favor for that one. Ambassador Zess is having a supply sent directly to us every moon cycle."
Agatha smiled, sipping her tea, knowing full well Zalix realized she was going to ask a favor and he just let her know it would likely be accepted. "How are the trials going, Excellency?"
Zalix looked over hiss hot tea, steaming in front of hiss face and smiled. "Well your prisonerss have been convicted and ssentenced to death. Their sentence iss to be carried out tomorrow evening. I have been conssidering pardoning one of them, which iss a well esstablisshed tradition with ssuch thingss, but I wass unssure about what messsage it would ssend to you and your Ambasssador."
Agatha smiled further, "Not much gets past you, does it, Excellency?"
Zalix smiled back over his tea, taking a tentative sip, "I do have good people working for me, yess. We ssurmissed there might have been a bit of a, what do Terranss call it....Florence Nightingale ssituation?"
"If I had not guided one of our staff away from just that scenario, yes, it would likely have happened. However, that is not the case. What we do have is a situation that could benefit you, your government, and the Embassy if Durx is willing to pledge his allegiance."
Zalix asked, "Allegiance to whom?"
"To you, Excellency. There will be no need for him to pledge to the Consulate. We will know his every thought. But if he is run by our Consulate, he would have diplomatic immunity should the need arise. And your hands would be clean as we would take the heat as his operator. Stating those credentials could very well give us the time to intercede, should he be caught."
"And if he sshould turn against uss again?"
"He would not live out the night."
Zalix looked directly at Agatha, "I have complete trusst in that sstatement, given the reportss coming out of the Ornalith Dictorum. I take it you are the one who hass augmented the core memberss of your diplomatic family?"
Agatha had a slight twinkle in her eye as she smiled back at Zalix, "Mmmm, this is such wonderful tea."
"Issn't it jusst."
"May I ask how you intend to approach him?"
"In his sleep, he cannot hide from me there. Any duplicity will be obvious. If I am not completely satisfied he will work for you and the Consulate, I will not ask for a stay of his execution."
"Can you do that from here? I have it on good authority he is sleeping."
Agatha nodded and sipped her tea as her mind spirit walked among those sleeping in the nearby prison. It did not take long to find Durx. When Agatha entered his dream it was obvious the Slarmian was resigned to his fate, was very stoic about the whole thing, and his only regret was believing in someone who would have betrayed him.
Durx came up short when a black and silver Terran cat appeared sitting beside him as his back was against a tree. This small glade had always been his sanctuary from the memories. But he had never seen this cat before.
Agatha peered at Durx as he lay against his tree, his coils in a tight serpentine in front of him. She gave a purr-meow and hopped into his lap. She looked up at Durx and said to him in perfect Slarmian, "Actually, Durx, we met at the Embassy when your group tried to kill us."
Durx froze and a cold chill worked down his spine. Eventually he asked, "You can invade my mind?"
Agatha reformed into her humanoid self, with her head still in his lap looking up at him, "Well, I would think that would be kind of obvious. Either that or you are having a psychotic break. And, frankly, we both know you are not the type."
Durx nodded. "So why are you here and, more importantly, why did you make yourself known?"
"Well, big guy, I felt your angst at being betrayed by those whom you trusted. I suspect those grenades, that we both know would have killed you, at the trial was the final straw. They would rather kill you than try to rescue you."
"Durx nodded again. "And?"
"Well, I am sitting in front of the Majestic Potentate, in his private quarters, sipping tea, and you came up in the conversation. He mentioned something about a pardon, if you might be interested. But there would be strings attached."
"Of course. Go ahead, I am listening."
"Well, as you know from our treatment of you, we are not evil, and given the fact Zalix is willing to pardon you, should suggest the same. We were wondering if you could commit to spying for both the Dynasty and the Consulate. You would pledge your allegiance to the Zalix but we would be your handlers. As such you would have diplomatic immunity, should you ever need to use it."
"And the Majestic Potentate would have plausible deniability."
"We would not. And I can assure you, we would come to your rescue rather than attempt to eliminate you. We don't turn on our own."
Durx thought for a moment, "Well, assuming I am not losing my mind, you have certainly displayed your ability to not only help me in times of need but also to be able to deal with me should I decide to change my allegiances. Am I right?"
"That was discussed, yes. But I am hoping that once you decide, your honor would make that possibility moot."
"If you know me that well, then you already know my answer. And, you know I would not do it from fear of death but as a way to pay back my debts to my people, my Potentate, and those who left me to die."
"No vendettas, you would be on a tight leash."
"Understood. But, as the Terran saying goes, vengeance is a dish best served cold. I am your Slarmian."
"Excellent! I will let Zalix know and he will proclaim your transmuted sentence just before you are to be executed."
"Yeah, that would be nice. My luck he will be late."
Agatha withdrew from Durx's mind and smiled at Zalix, "He has agreed to our terms."
Zalix smiled, "I cannot tell you how happy I am that you see the Slarmian people in a favorable light. I shudder to think what being on your bad side would be like."
Agatha smiled, "You didn't try to poison my family."